For The C30 offers composed handling, stylish looks and a classy, well-built interior. Most models are attractively priced and affordable to run, too.
Against Many rivals have more rear legroom and its boot is small. The low-speed ride is unsettled and the steering doesn't provide enough feedback.
What Car? says
The C30 puts ticks in most of the right boxes – it has a classy cabin and is decent to drive – but it isn't as much fun or as practical as key rivals.
Reader review rating
There are 18 Volvo C30 versions available
Buyer's notes
Target Price team says:
The Volvo C30 stands out from other small family hatchbacks, with dimunitive dimensions and distinctive styling that mean it looks more like a coupe.
Practicality is not as bad as you might think, but the boot is small and space in the two rear seats isn't as generous as in more conventional small hatches.
No matter, the Volvo has a classy cabin finish, and performance from the wide range of petrol and diesel engines is good.
It's also good to drive, helped by being based on the same platform as the Ford Focus. The C30 handles neatly and makes for a good motorway cruiser, although the low-speed ride is a bit firm.
All C30s are well equipped and build quality is not an issue. Nor is safety equipment, as you would expect of a Volvo, while security is also a strong point.
The incredibly frugal and clean DRIVe model with the start/stop system is our favourite.
Reader test team says:
Volvo C30 Hatchback 1.8 SE 3dr
I just love this car, I own it 5 months. The…
Volvo C30 Hatchback 2.0 R-Design 3dr
This is my first ownership of a Volvo. What…
Volvo C30 Hatchback 2.0D R-Design SE 3dr
I got my 2.0D R-Design SE with 10,700 miles on the…
Volvo C30 Hatchback 1.6 R-Design Sport 3dr
What is not to like about this car. My wife works…
C30 used rivals
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